Judgement reserved in alleged ‘rapist ministers’ matter

courtJustice Bernie Stephenson has reserved judgement in a defamation matter between Opposition Leader, Lennox Linton, and all ministers of government.

The so-called ‘rapist ministers’ matter go underway in court on Thursday with the attorney representing the government ministers, Tony Astaphan, asking the court that Linton’s defense be struck out since it is based on complaints made against only one minister on June 19, 2014.

He noted that it should be struck out so that the damages can be assessed on the grounds the defenses are wholly and bad in law, adding that there is not defense or evidence to support the case of justification, fair comments or qualified privilege.

He argued the alleged statements made by Linton at a United Workers Party rally in St. Joseph could not have been directed at one minister only.

He noted that the ministers were condemned as rapists and extortionist and that there is evidence that the defendant made any attempts to verify whether this was true or not.

“What investigations did Mr Linton do to ascertain the fact that government ministers were rapist and extorting young people in Dominica for sexual favors? He did nothing,” Astaphan told the court.

He stated that the complaints made to the police are not evidence to the fact, or the allegations and the complaints did not justify the allegations of rape.

Linton’s attorney, Gildon Richards, said he was not prepared to address the court on the meaning of the word complained of.

He noted that rape and extortion by the claimants mean nothing unless viewed in the proper context and it is unfair to use one part of a full address and use that part only to inform the intelligence of the court.

He said the word referred to was descriptive of the conduct of only one minister and they should not be taken lightly.

“They are the backbone of the proceedings and provides definition, scope and meaning,” he argued. “The words used referred to one claimant.”

He said there is no reason for the defence to be struck out, describing comments made as ‘fair.’

The parties are expected to return to court on February 29.

Linton was sued by the ministers following remarks he made at a UWP “Youth In It Too” rally held at St. Joseph on Sunday, May, 25th 2014 in which he referred to alleged activities by government ministers as rape.

In his statement made during the 2014 rally, he said, “There can be no honor in a government that harbors rapist ministers and upholds extortion of sexual services from young people seeking the facilitation of ministers to get personal development assistance from the public purse.”

The ministers subsequently filed a defamation lawsuit and Linton was also asked to pay $1-million in compensation.

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88 Comments

  1. Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
    February 22, 2016

    Telemaque Lennox is not a small boy not knowing his own mind– to seek for whatever gives him satisfaction.

    So then, no one is victimizing him; your quote about is from hia own mouth–no one forced to speak it; and you, as well as I, know that he found gratification to do so–or else he would have kept his thoughts to himself.(Elizabeth Xavier).

    Elizabeth, I am not going to argue with you on this; nevertheless I reiterate what I told you this morning:read your E-mail. You do not know half of what is going on in Dominica and the people you are defending. Lennox has a right to speak and make any comments he wish. In the comments he made he identify no one by name! So, if suing him for money based on the three line comments is not victimization, perhaps I do not know the meaning of the word victimization!

    Only in Dominica a frivolous sue like that could get a hearing in a court of law, any place else a DA or even the clerk of a court would reject that nonsense!

    You are very…

    • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
      February 22, 2016

      You are very eager to see the demise of Lennox; but I tell you he will out live you, and Skerrit, and the rest of his circus, his money glutting puppets. When you and Skerrit and all those who wish to harm Lennox exits into oblivion, Lennox will live and thriving. Be reminded our generation has a history of going past the hundred year mark okay!

  2. February 22, 2016

    Linton is a boldface no face ……if only he had humbled himself and retract that statement, we would not be talking about this…..Skeritte made a statement about Monell and he was big enough to retract even in his heart he knew he meant it…..Lenox the statement was made, it was heard and digested by the masses… but your arrogance got you here…et me see what kind of magic you have left in you…. just remember there is a case against you already….the court is going to look at this as a habitual thing… best of luck br.. you are going to need it.

  3. love I
    February 21, 2016

    Dismissed…your Honour…throw out that case

  4. dread
    February 21, 2016

    there was nothing wrong with lenox statement..i as a non lawyer could easily argue that case and win..he made no referece to Dominica Government in his speach nor did he name any minister..he made a general statement..if the ministers choose to apply what was said to them then its up to them and their conscience…

  5. %
    February 21, 2016

    I do not think that the Astaphan will succeed in having the matter struck out….IT’S THEN THE BATTLE WILL BEGIN!!

  6. February 21, 2016

    Waiting patiently for the results,just remember the guy who made the statement about Edison,we all know what happened to him,linton is on the same path,he has to pay for his tongue.

  7. Face the Facts
    February 20, 2016

    It is interesting reading everyone’s point of view.
    How many attorneys and defense ones are there discussing the issue in this column?
    Do you not think some of us could be attorneys for the complainant and defendant, even without taking a legal course?
    I think we would do a good job of it, right or wrong. :lol: :lol: :lol:

  8. As for me
    February 20, 2016

    Since that statement was made during an election season, threatening to sue was the right thing to do to stop Mr. Linton from causing real damage to the image of the DLP. Election is over and we should put everything to rest.

    If that statement is strill offending Mr. Skerrit and his ministers, then since Mr. Linton said he was referring to one minister, then let’s push him to point out that minister, and let us conduct an independent investigation to see: . If it is true 2. If the police knew anything 3. If the police knew, did they inform Mr. Skerrit 4. If all of the above is true, then Mr. Linton would be correct to say the government harbors alleged rapists ministers. If however, Mr. Linton is at fault, then let him pay.

    For all 19 ministers to sue is just a strategy to distract and hurt Mr. Linton, and that will not help us to deal with the real issue of alleged rapist ministers. Let’s get the truth and I hope that’s what the judge and court will go for.

  9. As for me
    February 20, 2016

    I have listened to both sides of the argument and here is my take. First my take is not political as most of the blogs I read, but one that is sensible and the right thing to do in the interest of the nation. I am a laborite who voted for Mr. Skerrit in 2014 but I must put love for country before politics.

    If I were the judge, I would advise Mr. Linton to be very careful when making public statements especially in a politically filled environment like ours. Having said this though, I would allow the defense of Mr Linton to stand for the following reasons:

    1. If they strike it out, the court would have many questions to answer and would make DA a country of fear.
    2. In our culture, if a pastor sins we say ‘those pastors’. Should the innocent ones sue as well?
    3. It was made in an election season
    4. Should all members of UWP sue the PM for accusing members of UWP of treason?
    5.We cannot allow Mr Astaphan to define and interpret our laws for us based on when it suits him

  10. mine
    February 20, 2016

    He had no rigt to call miniister or ministers rapist because none had be arrested or find guilty of rape. Is he say or she say, many times in life when we dont get what we asked for and thing don’t go the way we want. we cry rape.

    • The Evangelist?
      February 20, 2016

      @Mine, @ what time a crime is committed? Is it when the actual crime is committed or when the person who commits the crime is arrested?

      You all are too double standard in this country. Has either Linton, Fontaine or Mornel Williams been found guilty of treason or treachery? Yet did you hear the nation’s Prime Minister, who fortunately is the leading person behind the law suite of Linton, the week of Carnival calling them traitor and asked Dominicans to call them traitor wherever they are seen?

      It’s for our hypocrisy God’s wrath will continue to be on our nation until we become a nation built on righteousness. Until then we will build one month but next month what we build will be destroyed. We will plan, but will not reap; we will fix but what we fixed will be destroyed again. It is righteousness that exalts a nation; but sin, lies, deceit, hypocrisy is a reproach to any nation.

  11. LifeandDeath
    February 19, 2016

    This is a waste of time case for sure..it’s clear to see the DLP gov’t on a campaign to destroy Lennox Linton and nothing more..All Ministers in that same comess like a bunch of penguins heading to the sea..God help Dominica..How much sense a case like that really making?..and for a million dollars..I hope when Tony’s work is done he can sleep easy at nights…a man that received Dominica’s Sisserou award embroiled in foolishness like that..time will tell..
    Instead they spend their time developing programs for the young people of Dominica, they scheming to hurt only one man..Look around the OECS see which country doing worse, look at the quality of Ministers in Gov’t..Dominica set up to lose big in the long run if we keep unintelligent people like that at the helm..

  12. Looking in
    February 19, 2016

    So who is this “one” minister?

    • The Evangelist?
      February 20, 2016

      @Looking in, that’s what I would like to know and that’s what the government should invest our resources in doing. If I were the PM, I would do everything within my power to identify that minister. I would utilize the police force and charge them to conduct an honest investigation. I would check to see if anyone ever made a report to the police and if so, why what became of it. But then again, that is based on IF they are interested in identifying that one individual. Now, as an individual who likes what Mr. Linton stands for, I say if an honest and truthful investigation that Mr. Linton’s story was false and just politically mischievous, then charge him for that, and I can assure you that I would not pay a dime this time to help him. However, based on what I know, I have every reason to believe Mr. Linton’s story unless the government can prove me wrong.

  13. Caretaker
    February 19, 2016

    MRS. mIA ! THIS is THE BOTTOM LINE, problems are there to be solved which ever way you can. we all need a change in government, but with Linton at the helm,UWP stand no chance. He is always the receiver and not the giver. The man behave like a street fighter.out,out and out never in,.man you cannot lead us to win the next election which we desperately need.

    • feefee
      February 21, 2016

      Can you take Lennox’s place?He fights for the right of the people that’s all.So many things the ministers of the labour party said during their campaign and are still saying freely.Tony sees Linton as a big threat to the Labour party and will do anything to get rid of him.I am sure at the end of the day he doesn’t sleep well knowing the things he is doing and knowing too that they are wrong.See how fast he blocks cases against the Govt.With all that nobody says anything but are always quick to blame Linton.I remembered he Tony asking someone to ask Crazy T why were all his female workers leaving Kairi.That was when CrazyT was on the other side.What was he Tony doiing?Accusing Crazy of sexual harassment .Now he is on that same station Kairi giving Linton Blows.He likes eating his vomit.If Crazy goes to his archives I am sure he will get that tape.Tony is just a nuisance.

      • Barbara Saunders
        February 23, 2016

        Feefee

        If the archives of my mind serve me well, Crazy and Lennox used to co-host shows on Kairi when Crazy was on the other side. Do you remember the hunting down of Pierre Charles about his lack of a degree and other things and the treatment he received day in and day out?

        Try as I might I just cannot forget the almost fifteen years of harassment of government officials particularly PM Skerrit which was and still is being perpetrated on Q95. I heard with my own ears one day about a public officer who lives in the US and whose husband and his family lived here in Dominica at the time, who supposedly slept with HA from Barbados in a hotel in the US and many more unsavoury things which could have caused havoc in that family. The lady was not even a politician.

        Now you people have the gall to talk about wrong being done to the person who did this with impunity for so many years? Sorry but I just have a problem with these things!

  14. Boom
    February 19, 2016

    If Lennox knew that it was a likelihood that he would get sued by the entire government ministers and don’t have the resources to pay if he is found guilty. All he had to do was shot his big mouth. But wait he has you all to pay it for him, so what the heck, he can say what he want you uwp supports have my back. What stupidity

  15. Cya stand Linton
    February 19, 2016

    Lennox Linton is known to be very irresponsible with his tongue. He is arrogant, never apologizes, never retracts his statements and enjoys going to court for fame. He has never won a single case. Some Dominicans ca dit “Lennox working!” LOL :-D – What work Lennox working? You have to be a real donkey to be paying for Lennox tongue.

    Dominicans who support Lennox, his empty head and big mouth are very stupid. Lennox is an embarrassment to the United Workers Party. It is time to kick this uneducated man and appoint Hon. Joshua Francis as the leader of the Opposition.

    When they sue him the One million dollars if you all will bail him :-D

    Instead the dunce cat provide a comprehensive solution to curb sexual exploitation of women he talking about ‘rapist ministers’ – what a donkey! Hee whoreee! :-D

  16. Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
    February 19, 2016

    “There can be no honor in a government that harbors rapist ministers and upholds extortion of sexual services from young people seeking the facilitation of ministers to get personal development assistance from the public purse.”

    I did not want to make any comments regarding this case until a verdict is rendered; but I must say in a communist nation, like China, and Cuba one would expect a conviction to arrive from those few words above.

    Skerrit, and his lawyers intension is to instill fear into the nation, by victimizing Lennox; getting an unethical court to render unethical political rulings in their favor. If Lennox is found guilty, and liable to pay Skerrit, and his clowns any kind of money; this should bring a revolution on the country, and the people should not rest until Skerrit and his repressive, dictators evaporate from the face of the earth!

    These people has no human conscience, but as I predict, some of the oppressors will soon go blind, and will play in their own…

    • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
      February 19, 2016

      These people have no human conscience, but as I predict, some of the oppressors will soon go blind, and will play in their own feces! A premonition to become reality; when people sow the seeds of evil, evil shall they reap!

      • Telemaque Lennox is not a small boy not knowing his own mind– to seek for whatever gives him satisfaction.

        So then, no one is victimizing him; your quote about is from hia own mouth–no one forced to speak it; and you, as well as I, know that he found gratification to do so–or else he would have kept his thoughts to himself.

        I think that you are over reacting when it pertains to PM Skerrit. But take note that he has not yet been to any of those meetings–that is to tell you that he has better things to do than to go out of his way to victimize Lennox Linton

        If there is any victimization taking place it is Lennox’s work, to the point where he got PM Skerrit so (angry) that he might have said things that he did not want to say, the other day

        It is time for you to stop with your obsession with PM Skerrit; as one this audience said: You are either extremely jealous of him or you are attracted to him–I believe it is both; you are a sorry fellow wee!

      • Ralphie Alcendo, USA
        February 22, 2016

        I wonder if Lennox was talking about you what would think, how would you feel. How would you feel if he went about calling your relatives criminals and prostitute. I wonder why you are so fanatical in supporting Lennox and his big mouth full of lack of respect.

  17. REASONING
    February 19, 2016

    This government is a rapist government! What more evidence do we need,can’t we see them raping the island :?:

  18. Haman fell in his own gallows
    February 19, 2016

    I have a word for those 18 government ministers that know Mr. Linton was NOT referring to them.

    Government Ministers, there is a God above, who hears, who sees, who knows all things, and rewards all men according to their works. I want to remind everyone of you that when you take the time to dig a pit for your enemy, just to hurt him, you above all, will fall in it.

    I want to remind you that when you try to hurt the voice of righteousness, you are fighting against The God of all Righteousness, and you cannot win. I want to let you know that the wrath of God comes down against ALL those who uphold evil. As a result, some of you will cut off soon, while some of you will experience incurable maladies coupled with pain and restlessness. Some of you will see the hand of God against your very children all because of your evil according to Deut 28:15-.

    You all who claim to love God need to get out of this evil plot of Skerrit and Astaphan before its too late

    • MEN IN BLACK
      February 19, 2016

      ARE YOU SERIOUS.
      SO LINTON SHOULD SAY WHAT EVER HE WANTS,
      THE SAME WORDS THAT YOU ARE QUOTING ABOVE, BE CAREFUL, BE CAREFUL.

    • Face the Facts
      February 19, 2016

      Are you a joker or something? What do you mean that Linton was NOT referring to them? Linton’s words are clear as also stated in the previous and this article.
      How fair are you? You should refer to Linton as this evil plot which he has been eagerly trying to intertwine the PM, his ministers and his Senior Counsel Astaphan in, debasing them and wanting their downfall.

      • Haman fell in his own gallows
        February 20, 2016

        @Face the fact, not only are you a joker or something, but based on your response to my comment and the many blogs I have read from you, I have absolutely no doubt that you are indeed a lover and supporter of evil, and like Haman, you too will fall in your nasty pit.

        Their is not one person that does not know Linton was not referring to all ministers. After all, how could Linton refer to ministers like teacher Gloria, Mr. Charles, and others as “rapist”?

        Here is the part that I believe, which is also part of the statement, ALL of them should be concerned about because they are part of the government. But strangely, that’s not what angers them or what they suing for. Are they therefore agreeing that they are indeed allegedly harboring rapist ministers…?

        “There can be no honor in a government that harbors rapist ministers and upholds extortion of sexual services from young people seeking the facilitation of ministers to get personal development assistance from the public…

      • Ex da lawman
        February 22, 2016

        With people like you and your thinking Dominica will never go forward.You tell me who Lenox was talking about.This government rapes people like you daily.Without Lenox you wlould be clueless as to what goes on around you.Just remember the story of the ten virgins.I guess you are one of the five foolish ones.124 million in six mths. from passport sales,bin bobol to mention a.few.Are you ok not knowing when we do need this money post erika.Forget about Linton and look at the issues.Stop blaming the messenger.Don’t you see Linton is the government’s worst nightmare.The government knows that Linton is aware of what’s going on.They are simply trying to take him down before he takes them down if he is elected.Nothing more than a preemptive strike by the government.Wake up before its too late.

    • indira Ghandi
      February 19, 2016

      Amen.

  19. Caretaker
    February 19, 2016

    When you have a person you looking up to and that person always end up on the wrong side of the law, you say well done bro your supporters will pay, Is that real? What are you hoping to achieve. Win or lose, inside the criminal dock is a loser by itself. This is no way to try to improve a country. the worst in court is to answer the questions put to you. You may escape the fine but already you are a loser.UWP is going to kick-out Linton so hard from the party that he remain without a job for the rest of his life. Any MORE ALLIGATION about him and he will be out permanently.

    • Cooper
      February 19, 2016

      Is he really on the wrong side of the law? Or has Skerrit infiltrated every aspect of our democracy so far that we see wrong where right ought to be and vice versa? Judgment day is for all and sundry who see and remain silent and know and do nothing. Lennox Linton will be the least of Skerrit nightmares.

    • Face the Facts
      February 19, 2016

      Linton does not realize that he has spoiled his future as a politician. His supporters cannot see through him.

      • feefee
        February 21, 2016

        ThTs what your wish is eh?well you are fooling yourself.

    • Face the Facts
      February 19, 2016

      Allegation.

  20. Too Hard Too Long
    February 19, 2016

    Waste of taxpayers money
    My income tax going straight into Tony Astaphans pockets

    • Face the Facts
      February 19, 2016

      This is how unfair you are. Blame Linton for that.
      You are not concerned about what Linton stated to defame the ministers’ character.

  21. dady b
    February 19, 2016

    When ww had so meany child mollestation going on in da last year is that not saying something. when the covernment never came out and view there opention come on open your minds and think.

  22. The Evangelist?
    February 19, 2016

    “There can be no honor in a government that harbors rapist ministers and upholds extortion of sexual services from young people seeking the facilitation of ministers to get personal development assistance from the public purse.”

    @Labour of Love and others, I disagree that because Mr. Linton said he was referring to one individual, he is shooting himself in the foot and will lose. That makes no sense to me because we all, including the 18 other ministers, know he was not referring to all of them.
    In a previous blog I used Joshua 7:1, as example, where Achan sinned but yet God said it was the children of Israel that sinned, though many innocent Israelites lost their lives.

    The court should now dig the matter to see who is that one minister Lennox was referring to, so we all could have justice served once and for all. God wanted them to identify that sinner and Josua did what he had to do to identify the culprit and judge him so all the rest could learn.

    It’s time we stand for…

    • Face the Facts
      February 19, 2016

      If one person sinned, you do not blame the whole lot and include them. And to say that the PM harbors rapists.
      Linton put his feet in his mouth. He must be careful of his words and how he uses them..

      • The Evangelist?
        February 20, 2016

        @Face the fact, you always tend to quote scripture but never seem to find the correct application for the scripture. If you are saying that Linton should not blame all ministers when is one that sinned, then you must also say the same of God who blamed all the children of Israel, when he knew that it was Achan that sinned Joshua 7:1.

        Strangely enough, the only part of the statement that applies to all of them is “There can be no honor in a government that harbors rapist ministers…” because they are part of that government. However, they are NOT sueing for that part, WHY?

        You all are just too wicked, evil, ungodly in this country while you
        claim to be Christians, living in a Christian nation. It is for this cause the wrath of God will continue to slap us as a nation.

  23. The Evangelist?
    February 19, 2016

    Mr. Astaphan / Skerrit, Dominica is a country of law and our LAWS find its origin in God’s Holy Word, The BIBLE.

    In Joshua 7:1, we have a very good example of how God, the True and Righteous Judge dealt with a similar situation. Here is the passage:
    But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the Lord was kindled against the children of Israel.

    Notice it says The CHILDREN OF ISRAEL committed a trespass. Does that mean ALL of the children of Israel committed that sin? Notice how the same line tells us it was Achan, that committed the act, yet God’s ANGER was against ALL of Israel. Why? Because they did not judge the man.

    So one man committed the sin, but as far as God was concerned it was THE CHILDREN of ISRAEL!

    • The Baptiste
      February 19, 2016

      Evangelist, Oh wise and learned scholar. Unfortunately, these judges have made themselves gods, and pays no regard to such wisdom.
      Furthermore the basis of the legal system that we use was for the protection of the elite class, rather than to provide justice to the people. Just look at whose interests these courts protect, not the poor and down trodden, the abused women and children, always the interest of the elite, the masters, the persons with the money. Just look at the cost of seeking justice.

    • @The Evangelist? February 19, 2016

      Once again I am suggesting that you refrain from using the Words of the Bible as reference to whatever you are doing here–because you keep using it out of context

      Here you are talking about God’s anger being against all the people of Israel, even if He knew that only one man had sinned–are you comparing Linton’s judgement to the judgment of God’s and His people?

      Well the ministers of government in Dominica are not the Israelites and Linton has no authority to judge them–he has to explain his attitude and conducts or better yet change them.

      But then again, while you using God’s words or judgment for His people to speak on behalf of Linton–are forgetting that he and his lawyer is now saying that he was speaking about one minister?

      So how do you think you are defending him through that message of yours here?

      .

      • The Evangelist?
        February 20, 2016

        @ whoever you are, because you sure NOT a testimony of love, please understand that my life is guided by the Holy scripture and therefore before I do or say anything, I consult the BIBLE to get God’s mind. To tell me to refrain from using the bible is the VOICE of religion because here is what the bible teaches in 2 Tim. 3:16-17

        16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,

        17 that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly equipped for all good works.

        Notice the emphasis placed on ALL SCRIPTURE. Notice It is PROFITABLE for all things, including RIGHTEOUSNESS.

        The reason why you all are supporting this evil of Skerrit is because you all have turned from the TRUTH and RIGHTEOUNESS and have all become the servants of satan, ungodliness, unrighteousness etc. No wonder a Christian wo is lay minister can find the gourage to go on national radio to LIE about villas that is not his.

    • And if you want to use the Scripture as your base, to defend Linton, here is another one:

      When Jesus said at the last supper, about Judas Iscariot He said: “Most assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.” Then the disciples looked at one another, perplexed about whom He spoke @John 13

      Now even if Jesus said ONE OF YOU they were all wondering who was the one among them. Much worse that Linton spoke about a group –when he said “Government” It is now too late for him to say that he was speaking about one Minster. Lennox may think that he is smart–but why does that smartness continue to give him the title which says “LOSER”!

      • The Evangelist?
        February 20, 2016

        In our Christian churches when one person sins, people blame all of us and call all of us adulterers though most of us are innocent. A pastor from the north was in his comess and I heard many saying pastors cannot be trusted, when they knew it was one pastor.

        You all are too hypocrite in the name of Christianity! As a Christian, you all should push to know who was that one minister that Lennox was referring to, and then push to have him out, as taught in 1 Cor. 6. But instead you all choose to harbor evil and crucify Linton for showing his frustration. If the church was doing it’s job {promoting righteousness and denounce evil) Linton would not even have to say that.
        Here is what all should be concerned about but that’s not what they suing for “There can be no honor in a government that harbors rapist ministers…” This lines up with 1 Cor. 5:2 “And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you.”

  24. G
    February 19, 2016

    This is no matter for the courts am very disappointed in the dlp government trying to destroy Linton somebody more powerful than Linton might imerge. Dlp stop digging poopoo!

    • Face the Facts
      February 19, 2016

      If those words were stated about you and your family I wonder what would your reaction be?

    • Face the Facts
      February 20, 2016

      emerge

  25. Me
    February 19, 2016

    Are you seriously telling me that one man can be accused in court, by the entire govt. cabinet no less, and not be allowed to defend himself? I am flabergasted, to put it mildly. Surely this can not be right or natural justice.

    • real possie
      February 19, 2016

      Was it not one man who said MINISTERS, the plural form, MINISTER, the singular form, hence the reason MINISTERS took him to court.

      • Me
        February 19, 2016

        Possie I don’t think you believe that yourself. They only signed that writ because they were pressured by Skerrit to do so. Some were not even at that rally and it includes female members of cabinet too. You really believe Justina Charles believes that Lennox Linton referred to her as a rapist and here reputation is damaged? Come on man, be real. Now they all must appear in court except Skerrit, who always has a convenient excuse. Typical of a cowardice bully.

    • Face Time
      February 19, 2016

      the man was given a chance to defenden himself but he had no defensse

    • Face the Facts
      February 19, 2016

      If he had kept his mouth shut he would not have to face the Court. Those who cannot keep their flappers shut and not defame the character of others this is what will happen to them, some in different respects. Be fair and watch your words.

      • G
        February 20, 2016

        Linton should keep talking that’s politics in Dominica. No minister was defamed by that statement they took it up on themselves just to attack linton. You mean a senior counsil wasting his time on that foolishness????? But then again he getting paid big money to do this political mischeif. Linton will keep paying but Dominica tax payers will keep paying too.

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        February 22, 2016

        Facts, don’t you think you are to stupid!

        The lawyers who file, that case are idiots! Name one government minister name Lennox mentioned in his comments. I will pay you anything you ask, in peanuts change to quote the name of any one politician name in his comments.

        I can risk, some peanuts change, because I know neither you nor any of the clowns in Skerrit government including Skerrit which I can call his name without any fear of reprisal can say Lennox said he or she raped anyone. Well, I don’t know if that former Marigot woman now living in Grand Bay raped someone, since she was in court waiting for the verdict from which she hope to get some free money.

        Facts, people like you and Elizabeth, your hate for Lennox has clouded your inferior mind. Remember this metaphor: “no name no warrant?” The offenders might get a judgment in their favor, however it will not be based on any legal precedence okay; will be thrown out by a higher court; the CCJ will not uphold that!

    • @Me February 19, 2016

      The one man is not the victim, he is the one who made the accusation, of which the entire Government Ministers are seeking justice; for the accusation was against them–he should have no defense because he spoke those words loud and clear.

      It is not their place to conclude that Linton was speaking about one Minister –well who is that minster among them? That is why they had to contend –by Linton’s words he accused all of them.

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        February 22, 2016

        Elizabeth, I read all the nasty things you said about me under the topic; the Mountain Chicken Crapo Mentality Skerrit going to India to be crowned Indian Chief. By the time he return to Dominica he will be running around the balling wwwwwwwoooooooowwwwooooooooooooooooo; and asking where are the buffalos?

        I am taking note of everything nasty you said about me, and surly, I will make you pay for your tongue; you that little weasel hypocrite Christian!

        How can you say Skerrit has done me nothing, yet I am calling for his demise; what do you know?

        Foolish Elizabeth, “demise” means death! I never call for the death of that Mountain Chicken Crapo Mentality baldhead boy you know; I am not God!

        All I called for is a revolution in the county to bring down Skerrit and his circus! I want to see Skerrit crawl and beg the nation forgiveness for all the evil he has done in the country, and his corrupted ways! The day you demise comes along you close you and with your last wicked…

  26. Doc. Love
    February 19, 2016

    Does Tony Astaphan an experienced lawyer of many years who has listened to allegations made by politicians especially in the height of a general election, believes what Mr. Linton is alleged to have said deserves to be sued for $1,000.000. Does Tony Astaphan really believes if he was to win that case, Mr. Linton has the resources to pay that money in a country like Dominica. Is it a case of wanting to shut down Mr. Linton because he is convinced ,he is the only one who can upset Skeritt’s political legacy. Mr. Linton has made it clear, when his party gets into office, there will be major investigations in terms of the corruption which has wounded the country for approximately twelve years. An investigation into the Layou River Hotel and what has happened to the $120 million collected to build the hotel. An investigation into the passport fiasco. According to my Daddy, if you want to kill a snake, immediately, you don’t cut the tail, you cut the head.

    • MIA
      February 19, 2016

      Linton must be very careful with what he says, and where he says it as well. …………..Let us first understand the word Fact:

      Incident, act, event, or circumstance. A fact is something that has already been done or an action in process. It is an event that has definitely and actually taken place, and is distinguishable from a suspicion, innuendo, or supposition. A fact is a truth as opposed to fiction or mistake.
      Its time Linton gets his act together………….

    • real possie
      February 19, 2016

      Doc here you go again. 120 million where did you and Linton get those numbers from? The account for that project only saw 43 million, where did you get the 77 million from to make it 120? How can Linton investigate something he already knows the truth about? Under this labor government no money was given to anyone for this project. Interpol are not looking for anyone holding a Dominican passport, but some how you and Linton knows of some, LMAO. Doc election just passed to be talking about when Lenox come into office.

    • Abigail Harrington
      February 19, 2016

      Mr. Linton should start his investigations when his party gets into office with Mr. Edison James and all the former Ministers of the then UWP Government and all its Senior Dept. and Ministerial Heads; It is always wise to start there, and work your way up till you get the truth. I believe the present Prime Minister was a Teacher/Lecturer in his 20`s at the then Clifton Dupigny Community College or probably attending the Community College.

      • Titiwi
        February 21, 2016

        You are very selective. Why start there and not the time when we gained our independence under Patrick John?

    • indira Ghandi
      February 19, 2016

      Boy m that Tony Astaphan has something coming to him.
      He will not be able to stand.

      • Face the Facts
        February 20, 2016

        Some people are presumptuous. They think nothing will happen to them as they wish others harm. Whatever we wish for others, it could befall us one way or the other. Life has a way of paying back in some way and twofold.
        Who knows who in the future will be able to stand? Only God knows. Not a mere human being who is only a puff of smoke and could disappear into thin air anytime. This means to pass away.
        As my dear mother would say, “Tomorrow is not yours. It belongs to no one.” Therefore, be careful of stones that you throw.

    • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
      February 22, 2016

      That law suit is nothing more than a frivolous law suit, and as smart as Tony is I am sure he knows that fully well, the fact is I don’t think he is doing this pro bono, I am sure he has already collected his retainer fee, win or loose he makes his money!

      If Skerrit, and the rest of the waste of time hungry money grabbing thieves prevail in this one in Dominica, we will become convince there is no justice in our country. The only way Tony, and Lawrence can win this one is if the Judge or magistrate decides it should serve as a precedence. And that cannot happen since there is no particular name mentioned.

      Government does not mean Skerrit and the rest of the people in his circus. In reality in a democracy the people are the true government who elect people to represent them. I see a problem, but in a place like Dominica where corruption is the order of the day I would not be surprised if they are given a favorable verdict which is not based on any actual law!

  27. real possie
    February 19, 2016

    Linton sits in hot water again, had he used his words intelligently he would still sit in the same pot. Had he said the PM is harboring a rapist minister he would still be in trouble. Someone making a report of rape does not mean what was accused is true before evidence is produced in court. You have to have been found guilty in court to make such a claim.

    • February 19, 2016

      When the case begins I hope you wouldn’t be shocked when the name or names start coming to the front be prepared for that, so we the Dominicans that have common sense to understand the root of all evil on the Island that will come to a stop because ladies will be speaking out. I hope you were following the most currant sexual case in the USA surprisingly the ladies came forward which made it a stronger charge. The administration and their supporters don’t want the facts to shine they would rather sweep everything under the rug, they have destroyed Dominica and we cannot just sit back any more we have to save the Island for our children because they will reap what we allow to sow.
      Dominica belong to all of us, if something is wrong say it is wrong that don’t mean you are a Traitor to your party instead you are just being a honest human person.

    • I have facts & jokes 4 the population
      February 19, 2016

      So, false possie,
      If one is a rapist but not yet caught red handed ,I guess in ur book he is not?
      The rapist her- himself would /do know what they are . Woman raping too u know!

  28. Michael Davis
    February 19, 2016

    Linton’s defense to calling ministers rapist – it is a “fair comment” …. the response – “there was no proper defense for the justification of evidence to support a case for justification of fair comment and privilege” So on one hand the Leader of the Opposition – Judgement is reserved in defamation trial of Lennox Linton …. in the meanwhile on the other hand – a Doctor of Literature Honorius Causa is being conferred on Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit “in tribute to this distinguished record,” …. a failure vs success …. an expelled boy vs a head boy …. a negative vs a positive … this is a stark dichotomy! …. this will be telethon number what?

  29. February 19, 2016

    “There can be no honor in a government that harbors rapist ministers and upholds extortion of sexual services from young people seeking the facilitation of ministers to get personal development assistance from the public purse.” (Lennox Linton) This statement is quite broad and does not draw any inferences to any particular persons or Government Administration. If you say that there can be no honor in “a” Government, it is a factual statement and could be applied to ANY Government in the world. However, when your defense is on the basis that you were actually referring to complaints made to the police against one particular minister of a specific Government Administration you are essentially shooting yourself in the foot by narrowing the matter to a specific individual and a specific “Government” For the life of me, I just can’t understand where some of these Lawyers obtained their degrees! This almost guarantees that Mr. Linton will lose this case. What an awful defense!

    • Dominican
      February 19, 2016

      On their kitchen table he got his degree condi angelo. What I cant understand is that Linton even considering Gildon a lawyere esp after Checko.

    • Doc. Love
      February 19, 2016

      Excellent.

    • REAL!!!!
      February 19, 2016

      Labour of Love I will agree it is very clear in his statement he was talking about any government but this cannot hold up by itself therefore the rest of comment I will sideline.

      Now if someone wants to go further and say he made the statement in Dominica therefore how does that apply to our space, then if can be said he was referring to one minister who is know to be accused of such behavior.

      I don’t see the problem…..The Lawyer knows what he is doing this is why Mr. Astaphan wants the defense to be struck out as it open the case on this one minister.

      • Face the Facts
        February 20, 2016

        What do you mean, open the case on this one minister? It is a Court case.
        Linton spoke about all ministers. He cannot retract his words. He would place himself in further hot water. He should not be asked anything else but about what he stated which has resulted in this case.
        This is what the case is all about, that Linton accused the PM of harboring rapists’ ministers. This was an attack of defamation of all DLP ministers’ character.

    • Face the Facts
      February 19, 2016

      You forgot this was stated during an election campaign. You should know who Linton’s words were directed at. Otherwise which government was he referring to? One from another island? Some of you have no common sense.
      He should be asked which government he was referring to during Dominica’s election campaign and hear his response, if he has any.

  30. February 19, 2016

    That is another way the the politicians in dominica decide to make more money while the country is sinking little by little..

    • real possie
      February 19, 2016

      CB can’t believe you sat there and made such statement, is it ok for people to just sit there and say whatever they want and no action should be taken? If Linton knows it’s the in-thing why say things that can get you sued? Are you saying that the DLP members makes the same mistakes and Linton and his people chose not to take them to court? People like you love the lies that these people bring forth then you cry when they have to pay for that.

      • February 19, 2016

        What good for the goose is also good for the gander, you saying that prople should not seat wherever they are a make such statements, yet when skerrit told his supporters to harass Linton, Thompson and Monelle they clapped and repeated the word traitor each time he uttered how will you call them when you see them, I witness Linton being harassed in DOMLEC, too much double standard on this piece of rock, you all ready to crucify Lindon, at the same time condoning harassment which was uttered by skerrit and was heard not only in dominica thanks to modern technology, shame and disgraceful on skerrit, to all those rejoicing over skerrit, pinard, tony and minister dragging Linton to court, I say when you leave in a glasshouse don’t throw stones for no one knows what the future holds

  31. Heriones
    February 19, 2016

    now is only one minister? silly linton. very silly. seems like your defiance is wavering just a bit. you shouldnt be saying those things without proof my brother. you making them man play you like a fool. them man just taking money from your supporters. then when is comes to election you finish your funding in court. think about it bro

    • MIA
      February 19, 2016

      :lol: UWP should appoint a new leader by that time I hope…………

      • I have facts & jokes 4 the population
        February 19, 2016

        can the Gov’t ministers turn the accusation on the opposition leader and call him what he called them?- let’s hear the legal minds the Scalias of The commonwealth of DA

      • February 19, 2016

        MIA, tell labor to appoint a new leader cause the walls are caving in on Skerrit, just a matter of time, i say just a matter of time

      • indira Ghandi
        February 19, 2016

        Keep your advice.
        what you are fighting against will stare you right in the face

    • Face the Facts
      February 19, 2016

      He thought he could have won the election with such words. He surely deceived himself. Not smart at all.

      • February 20, 2016

        Doh worry Lennox infront yours and mine behind continue to rejoice. You are such an EVIL Human BEING. FACE THE FACTS. CHRISTIAN??????? Lord Have Mercy

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